As part of our never-ending mission to stay up to date with food trends and developments in the market, we recently embarked on a food safari through Elephant and Castle organised by Lumina Intelligence. We spent the afternoon discovering a diverse mix of flavours, cultures, and culinary gems. Each stop offered something unique, showcasing the rich food scene in this vibrant part of London.

Lenos y Carbon Tucked away but worth the hunt, Lenos y Carbon offers an authentic taste of Colombia with hearty grilled meats, rich stews, and vibrant sides. Each bite carries the smoky, chargrilled essence of South America, transporting you straight to the heart of its culinary traditions. The highlight? Their Empanadas con Aji – crispy, golden pockets bursting with flavour.

Beza This Ethiopian gem delivers bold spices and nourishing plant-based dishes, creating an experience centred around community and sharing. Their traditional injera, a soft, spongy flatbread, pairs beautifully with an array of richly spiced toppings, offering a wholesome and deeply satisfying meal.

Karapincha This Sri Lankan spot serves up fragrant rice, fiery curries, and crispy hoppers that bring the heat. The combination of coconut, chilli, and aromatic spices makes every bite an adventure. Inspired by family recipes, their dishes are crafted with fresh local produce, creamy coconut milk, and hand-selected spices sourced directly from Sri Lanka’s renowned Perumal family.

Ramen Hiro For a comforting bowl of warmth, Ramen Hiro hits the spot with rich, umami-packed broths and perfectly cooked noodles. Elevating traditional ramen with a modern twist, they use organic European ingredients to craft fusion-style bowls, incorporating unique elements like miso, cashews, and nutritional yeast for a distinctive depth of flavour.

Golden Tea A hidden gem for bubble tea lovers, Golden Tea blends authentic Asian techniques with a British twist. Their menu ranges from classic milk teas to fruit-infused creations, each one a refreshing burst of flavour. By using fresh fruit and homemade syrups, they ensure every sip is packed with quality and authenticity.

Lò Bánh Mì Bringing the vibrant flavours of Vietnam to London, Lò Bánh Mì is a must-visit for sandwich lovers. Their bánh mì sandwiches are a perfect harmony of crunch, freshness, and umami, featuring pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and expertly marinated fillings. While they stay true to traditional Vietnamese recipes – including the classic pork and pâté combination -they also cater to modern tastes with vegetarian and vegan options, making their offerings accessible to all.

From Taiwan to Ethiopia, Vietnam to Sri Lanka, this food safari proved that Elephant and Castle is a true melting pot of global flavours. A huge thank you to Lumina Intelligence for curating such a delicious adventure!

Been on a food safari recently? Let us know where you went and your favourite restaurants on our social @jellybeanagency

Megan Chierighini
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